Obituaries
MYER SILVERSTEIN
June 16, 1926 – July 2, 2015
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of
Myer Silverstein on Thursday, July 2, 2015 with family by
his side.
Myer was the son of Jacob and Bunia Silverstein and
the youngest brother to Izzie, Sydney, Al, and Dave.
Myer was a devoted and caring husband to Norma who
pre-deceased Myer in Sept. of 2012. Myer and Norma were
inseparable, enjoying the same sports, golfing, baseball
games, hockey games, travel, fine art, and dining. You
rarely saw one without the other. Whether it was walking in
the park, golfing, or working out at the reh-fit, they were
always there for each other in every way. When Norma passed,
there wasn’t a day that went by that Myer didn’t talk about
how he considered himself a lucky and blessed man, to have
had a wonderful marriage of 60 years to the love of his
life, Norma.
Family was always the most important thing to Myer. Not only did
he say he was blessed with a wonderful wife, he would tell
everyone he was blessed with wonderful children and amazing
grandchildren. Always a proud Zaida, he and Norma went to
all their grandchildren’s piano and dancing
recitals, hockey and baseball games, and special graduations.
He was loving, supportive, and demonstrative, always ready
for a hug.
No matter what job he took on, he was always placed in
management positions even from early on. He had worked in
the film industry for a while and then later worked for
London Life, as a manager for 35 years. Everyone loved Myer,
and always came to him for advice. He had a calm and tactful
demeanor, always with a very positive attitude, never
judgemental of others. He was a gentle man, kind, caring,
witty, wise, joyful, hard working, and compassionate, with a
wonderful sense of humour. He had a love for his brothers,
respect for his father and mother, and was a prince of a
man.
In his last days he was virtuous and his mind was clear. He
gave us all advice for life.. especially to his
grandchildren.. Myer said ” You’re alive. Make the most of
it. With a smile! It makes the world different, completely!
And everyone will smile with you. Always smile, always try
to help people if you can. That’s my philosophy. And you
know what? It works”
Myer leaves behind to mourn him, his daughter Randie (
Stephen ) and sons Jeff ( Karen ) and Lyle ( Roberta ), and
daughter-in-law Cydnee, and grandchildren Harlyn ( Jenny),
Sadie, Justin, Brittany, nieces, and nephews.
Myer will be lovingly remembered and missed by family and
friends and all who knew him.
Funeral services were held at the Rosh Pina Memorial Park
Cemetery on Sunday July 5th, 2015 with Rabbi Larry Lander
officiating.
Obituaries
Dr. VELIMIR KON B.Sc., B.Ed., M.Sc., Ph.D. September 18, 1950-June 27, 2025
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Dr. Velimir Kon, or Shlomo, beloved husband of Branka and father of Deborah and Lea. Velimir was an accomplished teacher and academic, and he was renowned for his intellectualism, humility and humanity.
A gentle soul who was always sociable and who genuinely loved people, Velimir was equally at home in the university classroom as a professor and as a secondary school Biology, Chemistry and Math teacher in Northern Ontario (Big Trout Lake) and Manitoba (God’s River, Berens River). Velimir made a difference to many First Nations students throughout a career that spanned decades. He was dedicated to his students, colleagues and family. An adept and talented pianist, Velimir enjoyed the arts and of course Jewish humour. He was an avid shul goer and supporter of Israel and enjoyed his duties in shul as a Kohayn. Velimir was a man of faith who was able to fuse his love of science and Judaism.
Born in Croatia, Europe (the former Yugoslavia) to Shoah survivors Rose (Rochel, ne Lederer) and Arnold Kon (Ariel), Velimir immigrated to Canada with his wife and girls in 1988, making many personal sacrifices along the way to ensure a peaceful and safe life for his family. Adaptability and optimism characterized Velimir. Known for his heart of gold, Velimir touched the lives of all who had the privilege of knowing him. A love of Jewish values, family values and life-long learning and education characterized Velimir. With his charming, outgoing and friendly personality, Velimir welcomed everyone into his life and into our home.
His kindness, humour, generosity and goodness will be deeply missed by his family and friends in Winnipeg, Victoria, B.C., Guelph, ON, Osijek, Croatia, Belgrade, Serbia, Los Angeles and Boston, U.S.A., and Israel, Jerusalem, Haifa and Karmiel. Baruch Dayan Haemet.
A traditional funeral was held on June 30, 2025 at the Hebrew Sick Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations can still be made to Chabad Lubavitch of Winnipeg, B’nai Brith or the JNF.
Velimir will be forever missed and cherished by Branka, Deborah and Lea.
Obituaries
ELAINE BEVERLEY KAPLAN
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our sister and aunt, Elaine Kaplan. She died on June 24, just a month shy of her 69th birthday.
She was diagnosed with lung cancer 15 months ago, and was given about six months to live, which she was able to exceed with great courage and determination.
Elaine was predeceased by our father Phil Kaplan and mother Bess Kaplan. She is survived by her brothers Gerry (Nancy Hughes), Allan (Rennie) and Sheldon (Mona), along with her nieces and nephews.
Elaine was able to remain at home up until a few days prior to her passing at the St. Boniface Hospital, which was her wish. She was employed by the Canada Revenue Agency for the majority of her career. She loved nature and was devoted to feeding the neighbourhood squirrels and birds. She also adopted and cared for many rescue rabbits over the years. Her family was important to her, and she loved attending family weddings and barbecues.
Donations can be made to the Canadian Cancer Society or to a pet rescue of your choice.
Obituaries
ALAN KLUNER
Suddenly and unexpectedly, Alan Kluner passed away on July 11, 2025 at the young age of 66. Alan had a very good life despite some ongoing health challenges he met head on for the majority of his life. He loved family and was a very kind and loving son, brother and uncle.
Born in Winnipeg, Alan developed a small but close circle of friends he maintained for many years. His passions were following his sports teams (Jets, Vikings, Bombers) and attending numerous rock concerts.
Alan is survived by his oldest brother Martin (Reesa), his sister-in-law Hanna, his four nephews and nieces Mickey (Stephanie), Corey (Sean), Zev (Kristen), Elana (Danny), and his great-nephews and great-nieces Mason, Lucy, Nora, Remy and Enzo.
He was predeceased by his parents Bill and Phyllis, brother Kerry, and uncle Alvin Mantell.
Alan’s funeral service was graveside at Shaarey Zedek Cemetery on Tuesday July 15, officiated by Rabbi Matthew Leibl. Pallbearers were: Martin Kluner, Mickey Kluner, Corey Kluner, Elana Kluner, Henry Goldfeld, and Alan Levine. Honorary pallbearer was Albert Yanofsky.
For those who wish, donations in Alan’s memory may be made to Diabetes Canada or the charity of your choice.